How can you get over your fear of the dentist?
Fear of the dentist is one of the most common phobias we have. As scary and uncomfortable as it can be, you don’t have to anxious. Here at Olney Dental, we strive to take the best possible care of you and ease any worries you have about your dental health, whether it’s a routine teeth cleaning or a consultation for wisdom teeth extraction. How can you get over your fear of the dentist?
Meet with Your Dentist
Before your first appointment, make time to meet your dentist. Get to know them as a person, and not just the person holding the dental drill. You could ask them any questions you might have about your upcoming visit, such as what their policies are, or what you can expect. Even if you aren’t new to your current dentist, taking time to drop in and visit in between scheduled appointments can help you feel more comfortable the next time you’re due to climb into the chair.
Admit Your Phobia
Next, be honest about your phobia. We won’t be judgmental! Some ways to help you relax during your next dental appointment could be:
- Chatting with you during a cleaning.
- Let you pick up, touch, and hold the dental instruments.
- Explaining the process for your cleaning before getting started. If your dentist knows what scares you, they can account for that during the actual process of teeth cleaning or maintenance.
Bring a Friend
Alternatively, bring a friend or family member with you. Going anywhere unfamiliar without a companion can be unsettling, especially if you are already prone to anxiety issues. Since they know you so well, your friend probably knows what you’re afraid of, and can help keep you calm. But you will want to get this cleared with the office first, since sometimes there might not be enough room for your companion to come into the exam room with you.
Try Noise-Canceling Headphones
If it is the sound of the drill or other dental instruments that upsets you, try bringing noise cancelling headphones with you. By using noise-cancelling headphones, you should be able to ignore the noises that bother you, allowing your dentist to work more quickly and efficiently, allowing your appointment to finish sooner.
You Can Trust Olney Dental for All of Your Oral Care Needs
For all of your oral care questions and concerns, Olney Dental has the expertise and professionalism to get them the answers they need. Olney Dental is ready to supply you with expert service in a professional environment. Schedule an appointment online today! For more information on how we can give your family the best dentist experience available, give us a call at (301) 250-1057 or contact us online. For more dental tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, YouTube, and Pinterest.